Question

What does it mean to say that mercury(II) halides are weak electrolytes?

a. They conduct electricity well.
b. They are strong acids.
c. They ionize completely in solution.
d. They partially ionize in solution.

Answer 1

Mercury(II) halides are weak electrolytes because they partially ionize in solution, leading to weak electrical conductivity.

Step-by-step explanation:

When it is said that mercury(II) halides are weak electrolytes, it means that they partially ionize in solution. This partial ionization leads to a relatively low concentration of ions in solution, which in turn conducts electricity poorly compared to substances that are strong electrolytes.

Mercury(II) halides, therefore, do not ionize completely when dissolved in water, and consequently, exhibit weak electrical conductivity.